MBABANE – The community of Maphalaleni was shattered by the death of a hunter in the area.
It should be noted that hunting in the country is regulated by the Game Act. It is possible to hunt common game with a permit from the landowner and during the open season. However, hunting royal and specially protected game is prohibited. Charles Tsabedze, a seasoned hunter, had passed away, and his community gathered to pay their final respects. Among the mourners, a peculiar sight caught the eye: Dogs, their necks adorned with colourful wreaths, stood solemnly beside their owners. These were not ordinary dogs. They were loyal companions, trusted partners in the thrill of the hunt. As the funeral procession wound its way through the community, the dogs marched alongside their owners, their presence a testament to the deep bond between man and beast.
The air was filled with the sounds of grief and remembrance. The rhythmic chanting of mourners, the haunting melody of traditional songs and the sharp notes of whistles pierced the silence. Amid all this, the dogs remained steadfast, their eyes fixed on the coffin that carried their master to his final resting place. As the coffin was lowered into the grave, a sense of finality settled over the gathering. The dogs, sensing the gravity of the moment, stood motionless, their heads bowed in a silent tribute. It was a poignant scene, a stark reminder of the profound connection between humans and animals.
Presence
A local resident, a seasoned hunter himself, explained the significance of the dogs’ presence at the funeral. “It’s a tradition,” he said, “a way to honour the life of a hunter. These dogs are more than just pets; they are tools of the trade, and partners in the pursuit of prey. “By bringing them to the burial, we acknowledge their role in our lives and pay homage to their loyalty.”
The funeral of the hunter was more than just a sombre occasion. It was a celebration of a life well-lived, a tribute to a man who had spent his days in harmony with nature. As the mourners dispersed, the dogs, their wreaths now faded, returned to their homes, carrying with them the memory of their fallen comrade. A relative said this is a way of honouring the elderly man.
